The Khama Rhino Sanctuary is a community-based wildlife project established in 1992 near Serowe. Covering approximately 8585 hectares of Kalahari Sandveld, its primary purpose is to provide a haven for the endangered black and white rhinoceros, protect them from poaching and help restore their population in Botswana through responsible tourism in their natural habitat. Located on the main route to the Okavango Delta and Chobe, it provides a perfect stop-over for anyone travelling from South Africa, Zimbabwe or Zambia.
Wildlife: The Khama rhino sanctuary is primarily focused on the conservation of both white and black rhinoceroses and is home to plenty of other wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, leopards, wildebeest ostriches, African wild cats, hyenas, and various species of antelope. The sanctuary provides a prime habitat for viewing bird species and has become a bird lover’s paradise with over 230 species of birds.
Facilities: Khama Rhino offers rustic but well-maintained facilities. There is a Visitor’s Centre at the front gate with a gift shop that sells basic conveniences such as firewood, charcoal, fire-lighters, and soft drinks. There is a restaurant and bar with a swimming pool close to the front gate (well-signposted). The restaurant isn’t exactly gourmet but does offer standard cafe-type snacks. A quick sandwich before exploring the reserve is not a bad option.
Activities: Game drives can be booked at the reception at the front gate, and campers can arrange to be picked up from their designated campsite. But self-drive is what we enjoy on the relatively well-maintained and sign-posted tracks.
Camping: The sanctuary has 22 camping sites, including ones suitable for large groups. Each site features a large Mokongwa tree for shade, a fireplace, a braai stand with a grill, and a tap with a birdbath. Two communal ablution blocks are serviced on the well-maintained sites, albeit somewhat rustic. There has always been plenty of hot water when we have been there. Note that the campsites don’t have power points.
Camping in the prime habitat provides endless opportunities to feel close to the 30 other animal species, and there is little more exciting than falling asleep listening to the sounds of brown hyenas going about their nocturnal activities or shining a torch from the campfire and seeing the glow of impala eyes before they vanish into the thickets.
Camp Site Costs:
| Description | Citizen (Pula) | Non-Citizen (Pula) | Resident (Pula) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Children (6-12 years) | P44.05 | P60.45 | P53.35 |
| Adults | P88.15 | P120.90 | P106.70 |
Note: The currency used is Botswana Pula (P). Prices are subject to change; please confirm with the sanctuary for the most current rates.
Chalet Facilities:
The sanctuary houses eight unique chalets, each offering various amenities. All chalets come equipped with bedding & towels, a braai facility, and a bar fridge (except for the A-frame chalet). So that you know, basic cooking utensils are not provided.
| Chalet | Description | Citizen (Pula) | Located at Makongwa Camp, it accommodates four people with two rooms and two beds in each room | Resident (Pula) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A & B | Accommodates two people, one double bed each | P775.90 | P775.90 | P775.90 |
| C & D | Next to the restaurant area, each chalet has two rooms and two beds in each room. | P890.50 | P890.50 | P890.50 |
| F & G | is Situated on the edge of Serwe pan, a two-story chalet for up to six people. There was no electricity, but lantern lamps provided | P890.50 | P890.50 | P890.50 |
| A-Frame | Located at Makongwa Camp accommodates four people with two rooms and two beds in each room. | P1034.55 | P1034.55 | P1034.55 |
